Baroque architecture first emerged in Rome and then spread throughout Italy into Piedmont (Torino), Venice, Naples, Sicily and Lecce, with each location bringing to the movement unique architectural elements, sculptural styles and defining artists.

Learn about the Baroque style and it’s leading architecture through an exploration of the most important Baroque structures in Italy.

Visitors are often surprised by the feelings they experience when they walk through to churches and palazzi created during the Baroque: walls and facades seem to undulate, architectural elements break out of their rigid forms and proportions, and statues and decorations become grotesque and fanciful.

This Approach Guide to the Italian Baroque includes detailed reviews of the following cities, which include many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. (See our map of all of the cities profiled in this guide)

• Rome. Featured architects include Bernini, Borromini and Cortona; guide also features a detailed overview of the Vatican and St. Peter’s Cathedral.
• Torino. Featured architects include Guarini, Juvarra and Vittone
• Venice. Featured architect: Longhena
• Naples. Featured architects include Fanzago and Sanfelice
• Sicily. Featured cities include Noto, Ragusa and Catania
• Lecce.

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